Large Intestine

1) Parts of the large intestine

A. Consists of a cecum, colon, rectum, and anal canal.

B. Colon is divided into ascending, transverse, descending, and sigmoid portions.

2) structure of large intestinal wall

A. Resembles the wall in other places of alimentary canal.

B. Unique layer of longitudinal muscle fibers arranged in distinct bands.

3) Functions of large intestine

A. Little or no digestive functions

B. Secretes mucous

C. Absorbs water and electrolytes

D. Forms and store feces

4) Movements of large intestine

A. Similar to small intestine

B. Mass movement happens two or three times a day

C. Reflex stimulates defecation

5) Feces

A. Consist of water, undigested material, electrolytes, mucus, and bacteria

B. Color is because of bile pigments that are altered by bacterial actions.